Is Online Dating Safe?

Online dating has become ubiquitous. Of the nearly 55 million single adults in the U.S., more than 49 million have tried online dating at least once. Additionally, one in five recent brides said that they met their fiance online. With this modern and convenient type of dating comes some new risks, however. Since you are not meeting through friends, your potential partner is not vetted the way one would be in the past. What’s more, this lack of offline connections makes it easier for people you date to misrepresent themselves. That doesn't mean you should give up on online dating, however. By keeping some common-sense online dating safety tips in mind, you can stay out of harm’s way while taking a chance at finding love.

Be Careful About Photos

When you are creating your dating site profile, take a set of images that are used only on dating apps. The reason for this is that people can easily use apps to see where else you have posted any given photo. If you are using the same pictures on dating sites that you do on social media, this can lead people straight to your Facebook or LinkedIn profile.

However, you can also use reverse image searches as a tool to keep yourself safer. Search a potential match's photos before you meet. If you find information that lines up with what you have been told about him or her, this is a sign that he or she is sincere about dating. However, if you see that a photo is used for several dating profiles, this is your sign that you are dealing with a catfish or scammer. 

Carry a Personal Protection Device

If you are going to be alone with someone who you do not know, carrying some form of protection can increase your odds of staying safe. SABRE offers a range of stun guns and pepper sprays to give you the options you need. Many items stow easily in your purse or attach securely to your keychain so they are right where you need them, if and when you need them.

Make Sure a Friend Knows Where You Are

Confirming someone knows where you are enhances your dating app safety. That’s why, before going on your date, give a friend all of the contact information for the person who you are meeting, as well as the address to which you are going. If you change locations during the date, send a quick text message with updates. You should also text or call your friend at the end of the night so that he or she knows you got home safe.

Don't Let a First Date Walk You Home

While you are getting to know someone, it is smarter and safer to keep information such as your home address private. While walking you home may seem like a romantic gesture, it is one that leaves you vulnerable to a stranger pushing his or her way into your home. Instead, meet in a public place and arrange for each of you to drive yourselves home when the night is done. What’s better, consider taking a cab or ride-sharing service. This helps to ensure a safe ride home — even if you have a few drinks.

Taking the steps to be well-prepared and protected can improve your safety and make it easier for you to relax and enjoy meeting someone new. Don't leave your personal safety up to chance. Browse our website and order a personal safety device from SABRE today.